Socially-distanced fun: 5 things to do around Bradenton this weekend
It can be tough to find fun in the days of COVID-19.
Fortunately, there are some local entertainment options that add in ample social distancing and other risk-reducing measures for those that feel comfortable venturing out.
Here are some ideas for keeping the doldrums at bay around Bradenton this weekend.
If you do plan on going out, remember to bring a mask. Face coverings are now required inside all businesses and public buildings in Manatee County per a COVID-19 emergency resolution.
Live blues and brunch
Good food and good tunes are in store this Sunday at Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille on the Bradenton Riverwalk.
The Bradenton Blues Brunch will feature a live performance from Chicago bluesman RJ Howson and a chef-crafted menu of brunch delights.
The event is a partnership between the restaurant, Realize Bradenton and the Bradenton Blues Fest.
Seating is outdoors and socially-distanced, and staff will be masked.
Details: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille, Downtown Bradenton, 101 Riverfront Blvd. # 120, Bradenton. Reservations recommended.
Info: 941-896-9660. mattisons.com.
Railroad adventure
The Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish takes visitors on a trip back in time to the days when locomotive transport was king.
After a temporary closure, train rides resumed in June with limited capacity and social distancing in place.
Weekend rail rides through rural Manatee County make for a fun family adventure, and there’s also lots to explore in the history museum.
Up to three kids ride free for each adult ticket purchased, all summer long.
And this Saturday night, a special evening train ride at 7:30 p.m. will take guests on a scenic sunset trip ($10 for children, $14 for adults).
Details: Trains leave at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Under 12: Free. Ages 12 and up: $14.
Info: 941-776-0906. frrm.org.
Drive-in movie
Ruskin Family Drive-In plays classic flicks and family favorites every day of the week. This weekend, computer-animated adventures “The Croods” and “Madagascar” will light up the big screen.
▪ The Croods: 8:15 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
▪ Madagascar: 10:00 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
Details: 5011 U.S. 41 N., Ruskin. Ages 9 and up: $6. Ages 5-8: $1. Cash only. $5 fee for bringing your own food. Alcohol not permitted.
Info: ruskinfamilydrivein.com.
See what’s in bloom
There’s always something in bloom at Palma Sola Botanical Park. Stroll the grounds to find floral wonders, plentiful photo ops and witness some pollinators in action. Also a plus: it’s free.
The park is currently in need of donations to stay afloat in the times of COVID-19. Stop by and see what Bradenton would be missing without it.
Details: Open 8 a.m. dusk daily. Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. N.W., Bradenton. Free.
Info: palmasolabp.org.
Drive-in concert and fireworks
A family friendly, drive-in event this Saturday at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds will feature live music and a fireworks display.
The show will star Orlando-based Lattitude28 Band with a genre-diverse set of hits, followed by pyrotechnics. The first 100 cars will receive free goodies. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
Details: Gates open at 6 p.m. Saturday. Show from 7:30-10 p.m. followed by fireworks. Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. $10 per car. No outside food or drink allowed.
Info: sarasotafair.com.
This story was originally published August 18, 2020 at 8:08 AM.